How to Find a Realtor to Help With Your Next Move

Starting the search for a new home is a major undertaking. Knowing how to find a realtor and what to look for when hiring one can help make the process much easier, especially for first-time buyers or sellers. Discover more about the real estate industry—as well as the questions you should ask during agent interviews—for you to be better prepared for your next home purchase.

Types of Real Estate Agents

Before you begin your search for a real estate agent, it is important to note the types of agents you may encounter. Some real estate professionals represent the seller while others represent the buyer. There are even realtors who act on behalf of both the seller and the buyer. A typical home sale will look a bit like this.

A buyer’s agent represents the buyer in a real estate transaction. They are responsible for finding listings within the buyer’s price range, scheduling showings and guiding negotiations with the seller to finalize a deal. Additionally, the agent leads the homebuyer through the closing process after a contract is accepted.

Once a seller accepts the buyer’s contract, the agent representing the buyer becomes known as the selling agent as they are responsible for selling the home to the buyer. While these terms are often used interchangeably, this type of agent always represents the buyer’s interests.

The seller’s agent, or listing agent, represents the seller’s interests—note the difference between a “selling” agent on the buyer’s side and the “seller’s” agent on the seller’s side. They typically make recommendations about the home’s sale price, market the property and list the home on the multiple listing services (MLS). Seller’s agents also schedule open houses and negotiate on the seller’s behalf.

What to Look for When Hiring a Realtor

Once you have chosen the type of realtor you need, it is time to narrow your search and select one to represent you and your family. Here are a few things to look for when selecting an agent:

• Licenses and certifications: Real estate agents must be licensed in the state where they practice. To confirm an agent’s license, simply check the real estate commission website for your state—you can explore Texas Real Estate Commission’s (TREC) here. Some individuals may have additional certifications proving they have completed training in a specific area of the industry.
• Market knowledge: The professional you choose should be familiar with the real estate market in the area of interest. An experienced agent can provide you with details like average property pricing, market trends and more to help you effectively navigate the home selling or buying process.
• Communication: Time is often of the essence when buying or selling a home. Do you prefer to be reached via text messages, emails or phone calls? Discuss your desired method(s) of communication with a potential agent and make sure you will be able to work well together.
• Experience: It is highly recommended you look for an agent who has experience working with clients who are similar to you. If you are a first-time homebuyer, for example, your needs are going to be different than those of repeat buyers or homeowners looking to downsize. Hiring an agent who is equipped to cater to your needs will help them do their job better and simplify the process for you.

If you plan on selling your old home, another factor to consider is how your agent plans to market your property and attract potential buyers. Not only will this will help you and your agent be on the same page throughout the process, but it will also set expectations about how quickly your home may sell so you can better plan.

Understanding how to find a realtor is the first step towards finding your next dream home. Are you on the hunt for a new home in Texas? Browse available Perry Homes properties in Texas’ major cities to find the perfect house for you and your family.